CARVING OF SIAMESE TWIN MERMAIDS, ATTRIBUTED TO THE "CAPE CARVER" WHO WORKED NEAR SANDWICH, PLYMOUTH COUNTY, MASSACHUSETTS, LATE 19TH CENTURY

Dimensions (inches):

2.5" tall x 5" long x 2" deep

Description:

American folk carving of mermaids as Siamese twins, joined along the side. Made of mahogany, the work has been attributed to an unidentified hand working near Sandwich, in Plymouth County, Massachusetts. In absence of a name, the individual was at some point dubbed "the Cape Carver."

Probably dating to the latter 19th century, the carving was purchased by a friend of mine out of the home of the former director of the Heritage Museum and Gardens in Sandwich. It had originally been acquired from a Rhode Island dealer, who had owned two similar pieces by the same hand, including another whimsy of some sort, and a cane. While my own research added no worthwhile information, the figure certainly has great whimsical presence and an intriguing story.

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About Jeff Bridgman

As the nation's largest seller of early Stars & Stripes and political textiles, antique American flags are my foremost business. As a serious collector and dealer of 19th century paint-decorated furniture, folk art and textiles, American Fancy is my foremost love. As a American patriot, the convergence of these closely related fields has led to a life-long pursuit of the most colorful, rare, and magnificent examples. I hope you enjoy the pages herein.